Ballistic missile fired from Iran toward Türkiye neutralized by NATO defense systems in East Mediterranean

ISTANBUL

The Turkish Defense Ministry said Monday that a ballistic missile fired from Iran and entering Turkish airspace was neutralized by NATO air and missile defense assets deployed in the Eastern Mediterranean.

In a statement shared on US social media company X, the ministry said some debris from the munition fell onto vacant land in Gaziantep, adding that there have been no casualties or injuries.

The ministry added that Türkiye places “great importance on good neighborly relations and regional stability,” stressing that “all necessary measures will be taken decisively and without hesitation against any threat directed at our country’s territory and airspace.”

“We also reiterate that it is in everyone’s interest to heed Türkiye’s warnings in this regard.”

In a separate statement shared on X, Türkiye’s Communications Director Burhanettin Duran confirmed that the missile was “timely engaged and neutralized by NATO air and missile defense assets over the Sahinbey district of Gaziantep.”

“We once again strongly reiterate our warning to all parties, particularly Iran, to refrain from actions that could endanger regional security and put civilians at risk,” he said.

Azerbaijan expresses solidarity with Türkiye

Following the missile incident, Azerbaijan announced "full solidarity with the brotherly Republic of Türkiye," with the Defense Ministry stating that Baku "stands firmly with" Ankara.

“We strongly condemn the missile attack carried out against the territory of the Republic of Türkiye that was neutralized over Gaziantep. Such acts constitute a serious threat to regional peace and security and are unacceptable,” the ministry said in the statement.

It also expressed support for the Turkish government “in ensuring the safety and security of its population and territory.”

Last Wednesday, Türkiye’s Defense Ministry said that a ballistic munition fired from Iran toward Turkish airspace was intercepted and neutralized by NATO air and missile defense units in the Eastern Mediterranean.

The development came as Israel and the US launched a joint attack on Iran, killing more than 1,200 people, including Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.

Tehran retaliated with drone and missile strikes targeting Israel, Jordan, Iraq, and Gulf countries that are home to US military assets​​​​​​​.